A.R. Menzies & Sons, Ltd.

Certified Prosthetists, Orthotists, & Pedorthists

Ostomy and Urinary Supplies

A.R. Menzies has access to a full line of Ostomy and Urinary Supplies to meet your individual needs.

Products available
  • Ostomy appliances
  • Ostomy paste, powders and seals
  • Protective barriers and adhesive removers
  • Pouches and room deodorizers

Helpful Tips

It is very important for the skin around the stoma (the peristomal skin) to remain healthy and free of irritation. The peristomal skin should look just like the skin elsewhere on your abdomen. To prevent skin irritation or other skin problems, you must have a skin barrier and pouch that fits properly. Each time you remove your skin barrier and pouch, look carefully at the peristomal skin. If you notice any swelling, redness or rash, you could have irritated skin. Sometimes, but not always, irritated skin is painful. If the problem persists for more than two pouch changes, contact your ET Nurse.

What type of ostomy appliances are available today?

When the client is initially fit with an ostomy appliance, it will likely be a two-piece system; a pouch and a skin barrier. By having a two-piece system, this will allow the client to empty the pouch and at the same time enable him/her to inspect the stoma (section of the bowel that has been brought through the abdominal wall) without having to remove the skin barrier. The pouch collects the body waste and the skin barrier protects the tender skin around the stoma. As time goes on, the stoma can, and probably will, change shape and size. When this happens, a different size and/or type of appliance may be needed.

Another type of appliance is a one-piece system that incorporates the pouch and skin barrier into one product. With both the two-piece and one-piece systems, you can get different types of pouches and skin barriers, each available in a variety of materials. The type of skin barrier you choose is determined by what will work best with your skin type. The pouches also come in different lengths and colors (transparent and opaque) and some pouches have fabric backs which are much softer against the skin.

It is always recommended to check with your doctor and/or entrostomal therapist before changing to a different type of appliance.

What about bathing and showering?

You may choose to bathe or shower with your pouch on or off. If you shower with your pouch off, choose a soap that is oil and residue free. These types of soaps will not interfere with the adhesion of the wafer.